Space Saving Lathe Tools Sharpening Station

Since in my basement workshop space is always in issue, I devised and built this space saving lathe tool sharpening station.

Six tools are revolving on three Lazy Susan platforms, giving me instant access to any of them. The important aspect is that all six tools take only 58 inches long of countertop, which was my goal. And the cost for the three Lazy Susan hardware is only few dollars.

As shown, I use two wedges to prevent any platform from spinning while I’m using a tool. The angle of the wedges is very acute to prevent any damage to the spinning hardware bearings and I’ve rounded over the “handle end” edges for comfort. I like to use them at the front, but they can be inserted on any side, if need be.

I think I will use this idea of revolving stations as much as I can in my small basement workshop. To see how to built the platforms and install Lazy Susan hardware, click here.

That’s a good idea. I’m all for space saving, seeing that I have a small workshop myself.If the wedge becomes a strain on the hardware bearings over time, you can drill a hole straight down through the two platforms and put a bolt there to stop it from rotating.

@Dennis: I’m no professional, but I learned that if I don’t spend the money on tools I will spend it elsewhere. So, why not spending on what I like the most. I rather buy tools that will last for ever than cars that will last only few years, at least here in mud and snow!

@cranesgonewild: You came up with a third good option. I sometime sandwich a piece of plywood between the two layers of a lazy susan and clamp it with a large spring clamp. If you take a close look at the first picture you will see this clamp on the shelf above. As someone said, it won’t go anywhere!